Face shields are recommended to provide full eye and face protection. True or False?

Face shields are recommended to provide full eye and face protection. True or False?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Depends on the drug
• D. Only for certain staff

Answer: (B)

Face shields protect the face from splashes, but they do not guarantee complete eye protection. Gaps around the eyes and the edges of the shield can allow splashes or aerosols to reach the eyes, and fogging can reduce visibility. For hazardous-drug handling, wear eye protection such as goggles or safety glasses in addition to a face shield (or use a full-face piece of protection) to ensure the eyes are truly covered. The protection approach is consistent across exposure risks, not dependent on the specific drug or limited to certain staff.

Face shields protect the face from splashes, but they do not guarantee complete eye protection. Gaps around the eyes and the edges of the shield can allow splashes or aerosols to reach the eyes, and fogging can reduce visibility. For hazardous-drug handling, wear eye protection such as goggles or safety glasses in addition to a face shield (or use a full-face piece of protection) to ensure the eyes are truly covered. The protection approach is consistent across exposure risks, not dependent on the specific drug or limited to certain staff.